For over 200 years, from around 1740, horsedrawn boats were one of the main forms of transporting goods. However, the convenience of motor-powered boats has meant that a horsedrawn boat is a rare sight on most of our canals today.
The Horseboating Society exists to promote horseboating and to preserve the heritage and skills of this once common form of transport. Read our Aims and Objectives here.
The Horseboating Society operates horsedrawn passenger trips on the Rochdale Canal. Details here.Some members are involved in commercial operations, carrying passengers for pleasure trips.
Some members take part in projects making horsedrawn journeys, often to rallies and festivals.
Find out what The Horseboating Society is doing and how you can enjoy the experience of horseboating!
Go to Events for timetable and itineraries.
Go to News to see what has been happening.
Go to Gallery for photo collections showing events and journeys in more detail.
Registered Office: 12 Oakwood View, Lower Beestow, Mossley, Ashton under Lyne, OL5 9QF